Judges & Partners

We are delighted to work in collaboration with The Higgins Bedford and Bedford Creative Arts (BCA) on this project.

Our judges

Tom Perrett, The Higgins Bedford

Tom Perrett is Manager for Libraries & Culture for Bedford Borough Council, which includes responsibility as Curator for The Higgins Bedford, as well as for the Borough’s Library Service and Bedford Corn Exchange. He led on the redevelopment of the art gallery and museum, which aims to be a community hub that works both with and for local people. The museum has an impressive collection of works by Turner, Picasso, Bawden and a whole host of famous artists. The Higgins is proud to work in partnership with the Harpur Trust and to have exhibited the work of Bedford children as part of the project.

Tom explains why the Art Competition is a great opportunity for young people in Bedford. [Link opens in YouTube]

Elaine Midgley, CEO, Bedford Creative Arts

Elaine Midgley is Director of Bedford Creative Arts (BCA), an arts charity that has been producing art with the community for over 30 years in Bedfordshire. BCA’s vision is that all communities will have an outrageous sense of entitlement to the arts because they believe in its power as a tool for change and self-expression. BCA produces art projects in any art-form that address issues of social justice and supports place-making. Elaine has an MA in Arts Management and has worked in theatre, venue and outdoor arts since 2004 including delivering Arts Award and running a theatre company for young people. Elaine believes that art can transform people’s lives and she is delighted to see how young people are allowing their art to transform people, including themselves, through this exhibition.

Elaine talks about why the Art Competition is a useful part of the creative opportunities for young people in Bedford. [Link opens in YouTube]

Kelly Smith, Bedford College

 

Kelly Smith is the course manager for all design courses within Art & Design at Bedford College. Bedford College, has been supporting the Arts for over 20 years, with courses to suit all levels and needs, developing students’ skills to support a diverse
range of career opportunities within the creative arts industry. Within the Art and Design department, Kelly and the team work to ensure students feel confident about developing their ideas, considering constantly the purpose, context and commentary of their work, encouraging them to reach out to their community and inspire change through their work.

Kelly talks about why Art is important for young people in Bedford. [Link opens in YouTube]